Help for the Journey: Week 5

Day 1
Reflecting on God’s creation

In the Bible

So my spirit grows faint within me; my heart within me is dismayed. I remember the days of long ago; I meditate on all your works and consider what your hands have done. I spread out my hands to you; my soul thirsts for you like a parched land. Psalm 143:4–6

1. What can you do when your spirit is faint or when your heart feels heavy?

2. How does it help you to meditate on God’s creation?

In your life

1. What are your favorite places in nature?

2. How does creation show something about the greatness of God?

Discover more practical ideas for moving forward in healing at a GriefShare group near you.

Day 2
Passing on your blessings

In the Bible

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. 2 Corinthians 1:3–4

1. How has God comforted you since the loss of your loved one?

2. According to the above Bible verse, what is one reason God has comforted you?

In your life

1. Describe a time when you have spoken to someone in grief (or another crisis) and shared words that were helpful to him or her.

2. Sometimes words are not what is needed. What actions of comfort can you pass on to another person?

Day 3
You can help someone else

In the Bible

Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the saints. Philemon 1:7

I long to see you so that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to make you strong—that is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith. Romans 1:11–12

1. How can you encourage others?

2. Why do you need to spend time with other people?

In your life

1. Describe someone who has been a great encouragement to you.

2. Describe a time when you needed encouragement and did not receive it.

Day 4
Many hands make the load light

In the Bible

Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. Galatians 6:2

1. How can you fulfill the law of Christ?

2. What attitude should you take toward others?

In your life

1. You cannot help everyone, but you can help someone. Name some people you could help (by being a listening ear, by doing something for them, by giving a gift or a kind word, by volunteering your time).

2. Why do you need others?

Day 5
The golden rule

In the Bible

So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets. Matthew 7:12

1. Rewrite the Golden Rule in your own words:

2. How is the Golden Rule proactive?

In your life

1. Describe what life would be like if everyone followed the Golden Rule.

2. If you go to church, how is your church a spiritual hospital?